Community-Based Corrections for Young Offenders: Proposal for a “Localized” Corrections

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Abstract
Recent years have witnessed the exponential growth of community-based corrections programs for young offenders worldwide. Proponents of these programs contend that such initiatives are effective and humane alternatives to incarceration and operate to reduce youthful misbehavior. These assertions, however, have been called into question by empirical research and there is a danger that the ‘panacea’ of community corrections will be replaced by more punitive and less enlightened policies and programs. It is argued that the potential effectiveness of community-based corrections has been hindered by the manner in which such programs are designed and delivered, and that insufficient attention has been given to the notions of community and community involvement. Several principles of ‘localized’ corrections which would address many of the current deficiencies are outlined. Localized corrections involves communities, rather than government agencies and ministries, assuming primary responsibility for identifying and addressing the needs of youth.